Ankeny Holiday Guide

Celebrate the Holidays in Ankeny

Ankeny shines during the holidays, with its winter festivals, local shops full of holiday treasures and an abundance of family-friendly events that will bring joy to all.

• What To Do: Celebrate the season at the Dazzling in the District on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, including holiday tree lighting fireworks and more festivities at the Town Square Park in the District at Prairie Trail. And you won‘t want to miss Miracle on 3rd Street in Uptown Ankeny on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025! Stroll along SW 3rd Street, Walnut, Maple and Cherry Streets, surrounded by more than 50 animated Winter Wonderlights displays for an evening of holiday magic.
• Where to Shop: Support local businesses this season with a shopping trip around Ankeny! The District at Prairie Trail provides a unique storefront experience with boutiques and specialty shops all in one place. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts and holiday décor at shops like Mainstream Boutique, The Boutique at AR Workshop and The Funky Zebra Boutique. For even more treasures, check out Walls of Books, Jay's CD and Hobby and XoXo Gift & Home in Ankeny. For more local stops, wander through Uptown Ankeny, and find the full list of Ankeny Chamber businesses for all your holiday shopping needs!
• Special Holiday Moments: Experience Ankeny’s Gingerbread Lane where Southeast 8th Street - Richland Court transforms into a festive display of the gingerbread boy’s story. Homes are uniquely decorated with gingerbread men, storyboards and a life-size gingerbread house. On weekends, neighbors dress up as Santa and elves, collecting donations for the Food Bank of Iowa. Drive through for free and consider donating to support the cause.

Celebrate Throughout Greater Des Moines

Now is the time to shop, celebrate and support local. Check out all things DSM Local for the holidays and seize the season in places near Ankeny, like Polk City, Bondurant and Johnston.